5 NBA teams that have not performed as well as their strength on paper

#4 Philadelphia 76ers

Simmons will miss an extended period of time due to lower back issues.

The Philadelphia 76ers' starting lineup of Joel Embiid, Tobias Harris, Al Horford, Josh Richardson, and Ben Simmons, is arguably the most talented in the league. However, their recent runs have provided little proof that this team is a serious title contender.

During their four-game losing streak recently, the Sixers lost to the Hawks, Bucks, Heat, and Celtics, three of whom are placed above them in the East standings. With averages like 23.8 points and 12 rebounds, Embiid certainly hasn't been his best version this season.

When experts projected this team to be one of the legit powerhouses from the Eastern Conference before the season began, they surely wouldn't have expected the 5th seed. The Raptors and Heat have undoubtedly beat them to the finish line, and with Simmons out indefinitely, things are only going to get worse for this franchise.

---

#3 Phoenix Suns

Ayton missed 25 games early on due to suspension.

The Phoenix Suns roster was different and much-improved for this season. But unfortunately, the end result hasn't changed for this ailing franchise.

Despite housing prominent names in Devin Booker, Ricky Rubio, Aron Baynes, DeAndre Ayton, and Kelly Oubre Jr., this team finds itself at the third-worst spot in the Western Conference. Their current 24-34 (0.414) win-loss record is a far cry from the quality talent that was assembled on this roster.

Led by All-Star Devin Booker, there are six Suns players averaging double digits in scoring, but they have lost seven of their last eleven games, and expect to miss yet another postseason.